What is FTP?

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What is FTP? File Transfer Protocol, is an important tool for anyone running a Web site. It allows you to upload and manage files directly from your computer to your website server. This is especially useful for WordPress users who want to upload themes, plugins, or large files that cannot be installed through the WordPress dashboard. In this article, we explain how to set up and use FTP for your WordPress site

What do you need.

Before you begin, make sure you have the following items on hand:

  1. FTP client: This is the software you use to connect to your Web server. Popular options are FileZilla , Cyberduck and WinSCP .
  2. FTP login information: You usually get this information from your web hosting provider. You will need the FTP server name, a username and a password.

Configuring FTP Client

Open your FTP client and enter the following information:

  • Host: This is the server name, often something like ftp.yourwebsite.com.
  • Username: Your specific FTP username.
  • Password: Your FTP password.
  • Port: Most FTP sessions use port 21, unless your host specifies otherwise.

Connecting to your Web server

After entering your information, click “Connect” or “Quickconnect” in your FTP client. You should now be able to access the files on your Web server. It may take a while for all files and folders to load, depending on the speed of the host and your Internet connection.

Transferring Files

Now that you are connected, you can drag and drop files and folders between your computer and your Web server. To install a WordPress theme or plugin:

  1. Find the ‘wp-content’ folder on your web server.
  2. Navigate to the ‘themes’ or ‘plugins’ subfolder, depending on what you want to upload.
  3. Drag and drop the file or folder from your computer to the appropriate folder on your server. Make sure you upload themes to the ‘themes’ folder and plugins to the ‘plugins’ folder.

What to look out for.

  • File permissions: Sometimes file permissions (also known as file permissions) must be changed to avoid accessibility and executability problems.
  • Backup: Always backup your website before making any major changes, such as installing a new theme or plugin via FTP.

With this information, you should be able to keep your website stable without errors. More tips? Then subscribe to our newsletter !

Still have questions or can’t figure it out? Please feel free to contact us .